The Sunday Mirror says the former Chelsea boss has made no secret of his ­desire to remain in English football despite being sacked by Chelsea after winning a ­domestic Double in his first ­campaign and finishing ­runners-up to ­Manchester United last season.

Ex-Milan boss Ancelotti has said: “I love London. I love England. I love the football in England. The culture of the football. The atmosphere at the grounds.

“Right now England is the best country in the world for football.”

Everton boss David Moyes had been widely tipped to replace Redknapp, who would endorse the appointment of his pal, who has been in charge at Goodison Park since 2002.

But it appears the Spurs board feel the high profile recruitment of Ancelotti would ease the massive disappointment felt by Redknapp’s potential departure.